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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Grand Forks and Staples. The average train journey from Grand Forks to Staples takes 3 hours and 17 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.
| Distance | 151 mi (243 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 17m |
| Lowest price | $38.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Grand Forks to Staples?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Grand Forks to Staples. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 3h 17m | $38.00 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Grand Forks and Staples is approximately 151 miles, or 243 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 17 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Grand Forks to Staples on Tuesday. Tickets for Tuesday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Grand Forks at 2:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:00am. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Grand Forks twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Staples with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Staples to Grand Forks.
City Information
Station Information
Where is the train station in Grand Forks?
Main departure station: 5555 DeMers Ave
There is one train station in Grand Forks.
All train stations in Grand Forks:
5555 DeMers Ave
Where is the train station in Staples?
Main arrival station: First Ave NE and Fourth St NE
Staples has one train station.
All train stations in Staples:
First Ave NE and Fourth St NE
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Need a return trip from Staples to Grand Forks?
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